Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for Pre-Cancers

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment that uses a drug, called a photosensitizer or photosensitizing agent, and a particular type of light. When photosensitizers are exposed to a specific wavelength of light, they produce a form of oxygen that kills nearby cells. PDT is used to treat sun-damaged skin and skin that already has been diagnosed to have Actinic Keratoses (pre-skin cancers).

Additional Information:

OUR PROCESS:

At SkinMD, we use a medication called Amuluz. This medication is first applied to the skin and allowed to sit on the skin for a few minutes.

Then, the patient will sit underneath a special light source for a period of time, usually 30-60 minutes. The light activates the medication and the medication prompts an immune response which then destroys abnormal cells on the skin.

After healing, Dr. Jacobson will bring you back to the office to make sure that the abnormal skin has been treated. Some patients may require multiple PDT treatment to fully-treat their pre-cancers.

COMPLICATIONS ARE MANAGEABLE:

The treatment area can appear red and you may experience some peeling for up to 7 days following treatment.

Mild swelling can occur around the lip or eye area.

If swelling occurs it is usually temporary and will subside within a day or two.

Sensitive skin may appear very red for the first couple of days.

Pigmentation spots can become temporarily darker and then will peel off, leaving the skin smooth and even-toned.

You will be advised to stay out of the sun and to consistently us a sun block. You will be photosensitive for several days and must protect the treated area.